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The Port of New York and New Jersey has authorized an initiative to continue ongoing efforts to improve air quality in the region by providing incentives to shipping lines to operate in a more environmentally friendly manner.

The Ocean-going Vessels Low Sulfur Fuel Program will encourage the use of low-sulfur fuel by providing financial incentives to operators of ocean vessels for up to 50 percent of the cost differential between high-sulfur fuel and low-sulfur fuel. Vessel operators will absorb the remaining 50 percent of the cost differential. The vessels also must participate in a vessel speed reduction program to qualify for this program.

The Board of Commissioners authorized $6.36 million for the ocean-going vessel fuel program.

Port Authority Deputy Executive Director Susan Bass Levin said, “We have worked closely with community organizations and the port community to develop programs that will improve the air quality in the region. Providing financial incentives will enable the Port to grow in an environmentally friendly way.”